So I have a 98 civic ex 4 door automatic... just trying to figure out why it boggs going up hill... I am doing a head gasket change right now hence the pics. Figured well I got it broken down so I could take better pics might as well as take advantage lol... so I understand that it's a d15b block then the head code says p2j-2 and a 96 on the side and a p08 where the cam gear is located... I'm a little lost lol I've been told that the head might be either a d16y8 or a d16y5 I do know it's vtec but it's like it never kiks in... instead it boggs down when I step on the gas... it's like I always have to drive slower and not pass no one instead wait for them to pass and then make a lane change...

 

You need to check the cable linking the throttle to the transmission. This cable makes the transmission drop to a lower gear when you floor the gas. That is essential to get the engine rpm up for more horsepower.

It is unusual to pass anyone with a Civic, and you're expecting to do it uphill?

 

Its okay I found out the block is cracked so I have to do a swap now anyways so o well onto a gsr engine 1.8l 170hp... I dident meen that I am trying to pass anyone even up hill and no it's not unusual for a civic to pass anyone at least from where I am from... back in the day my friends and I built civics that smoked v8's for breakfast the problem is that they were more the mechanics then I... I was just there to help and picked up a few things along the way... it's about the power to weight ratio and well a v8 is spinning tires on the line we we're already launching down the strip... not saying that their the best make in the world or any car is better then the next I like all cars... I just developed a love for Honda's cause of my friends influences and learning simple little things that are so well thought out like access holes in your door panel to adjust your window etc...